Utility APS Chooses Battery Storage Over Traditional T&D

Instead of rebuilding about 20 miles of transmission and distribution (T&D) poles and wires, Arizona Public Service (APS) will install two battery storage systems in rural Punkin Center, Ariz., making it one of the first electricity companies in the nation to use batteries in place of traditional infrastructure. The two 4 MWh Advancion batteries are made by AES Energy Storage, and construction on the project will begin this fall.

“This project is a crucial step in the right direction for Arizona’s energy future,” says Scott Bordenkircher, APS’ director of transmission and distribution technology innovation and integration. “Over the next 15 years, APS has plans to add 500 MW of storage capacity. This project is indicative of the type of smart grid APS envisions for customers, one that enables people to have more technology in their own homes.”

Currently, APS is using batteries to store excess solar power for use after the sun goes down, for storing energy to use at peak times and for other functions such as voltage support. The utility says this project is unique, in that the primary function of the battery is basic grid operation. To reliably serve new customers in the growing community of Punkin Center, APS was faced with rebuilding 20 miles of power lines over rough terrain. The utility says a review of the community’s needs showed that adding battery storage would provide these additional benefits at a similar cost to rebuilding the lines.

“We are watching as the prices come down on battery technology,” says Bordenkircher. “Thoughtful implementation of battery storage is key to its future success. For a community like Punkin Center, the rural location, reduced implementation costs and added technological benefits make it the perfect candidate for this technology.”

According to APS, the batteries will increase power reliability to serve the community of 600 residents, located roughly 90 minutes northeast of downtown Phoenix. The battery project will be built with the capability to add energy capacity as the need arises over the next five to 10 years. The pair of 4 MWh battery storage systems are expected to be operational in early 2018.

This is not APS’ first foray into battery storage. Last December, the utility installed two AES battery storage units in the West Valley as part of the Solar Partner Program.

Photo courtesy of APS: The new 4 MWh Advancion batteries from AES Energy Storage will similar to those pictured, which are currently in use by APS.